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Scutari Sets October Dates for Legislative Delegation Trip to Examine Colorado Marijuana Industry & Impact of Legalization

Senator Nicholas P. Scutari (D-Middlesex, Somerset and Union)

TRENTON – Senate Judiciary Chairman Nicholas Scutari announced today that he will host a legislative trip to Colorado from October 16-19, 2016. The purpose of the trip will be to allow members of the Legislature to see firsthand the legalized marijuana program in Colorado and to meet with government officials and others in the state. Senator Scutari, who is working on legislation to legalize, regulate and tax marijuana, spent four days in Colorado in June as part of a fact-finding mission to examine the industry:

 “During my visit to Colorado, I saw the success of the state’s marijuana program and the widespread benefits that legalization could have in New Jersey. I also took away important information about areas that we may want to more closely examine, in terms of the regulation of marijuana and the packaging of certain products. I believe that as we continue the discussion on how best to move forward with a marijuana program in our state, it is important that members of the Legislature see firsthand how the legal marijuana industry is working.

 “This trip will allow legislators to see Colorado’s marijuana program from seed to sale. It will offer an in-depth look at the industry, and provide an opportunity to meet with and learn from those engaged in developing, launching and operating the program, as well as those uniquely positioned to discuss how legalization has impacted the state. We will meet with state officials, representatives from law enforcement, and regulators, among others, and will tour growing, production and retail facilities.

 “I have heard from a number of my colleagues who have expressed interest in learning more about this issue, and look forward to a fact-finding trip that will serve as an important part of shaping public policy in our state.”

Senator Scutari today invited each member of the Legislature to attend the NJ Legislative Delegation trip. Each attendee will be responsible for paying for their travel and accommodations.